Bengaluru: While the fifth T20 international between India and South Africa was called off after 3.3 overs owing to rain on Sunday in Bengaluru, an event off the field drew the most attention.
A video footage shot during the rain break showed Ruturaj Gaikwad sitting in the dugout with two groundsmen when one of them attempted to snap a selfie with him. Gaikwad then pushed the man away while motioning for him to give him some room before looking away.
The video quickly went viral on social media, with many people labeling the cricketer’s behavior toward the groundskeeper as rude.
Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this 😔#RuturajGaikwad pic.twitter.com/jIXWvUdqIX
— Arnav (@imarnav_904) June 19, 2022
“Ban him. Groundsmen are working tremendously hard in the rain and then this Gaikwad asks him not to touch him,” wrote Twitter user Avneet (@itz_avneet_). Another user Amayprem (@Amayprem333) said, “Rituraj treats groundmen like casteism. Request BCCI to fine him for his bad behaviour.”
“Dear Ruturaj Gaikwad, attitude and character are more important than skills and performance. With your current attitude, you will never reach places. Players like Sachin, Dhoni and Kohli are legends, not because of their skills alone. Learn to respect fellow humans!” commented KjK (@StealthModeUser).
Meanwhile, the game began at 7:50 PM and just 3.3 overs were feasible when the rain gods opened up again, causing a washout. The five-match T20I series was split between India and South Africa. After four matches, India and South Africa were tied at 2-2.
